Biography
Shaffer Chimere Smith (born October 18, 1979), better known by his stage name Ne-Yo, is an American pop and R&B singer-songwriter, musician, record producer, dancer, actor, and occasional rapper. Ne-Yo has also amassed a catalog of chart-topping songs that he has written for other artists. He broke into the recording industry as a songwriter, penning the 2004 hit “Let Me Love You” for singer Mario. The single's successful release in the United States prompted an informal meeting between Ne-Yo and Def Jam's label head, and the signing a recording contract.
In 2006, Ne-Yo's debut album, “In My Own Words,” debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200 Albums chart. His second single, “So Sick,” reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles chart. The album was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America in the U.S.
Ne-Yo's second album, “Because of You,” was released in May 2007 and debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200. The first single, “Because of You,” peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100. The album was certified platinum in the U.S.
Ne-Yo's third album, “Year of the Gentleman,” was released in September 2008 and debuted at #2 on the Billboard 200. The first single, “Closer” peaked at #7 on the Billboard Hot 100. “Year of the Gentleman” was certified platinum in the U.S.
His fourth studio album “Libra Scale” was released in November 2010 and reached #9 on the Billboard 200 becoming his fourth consecutive Top 10 album.